Des Moines Quick Facts

Climate

There are seasonal contrasts in temperatures and precipitation in Des Moines.
Average temperatures are: Spring (47), Summer (75), Fall (50) and Winter (23).
Average annual precipitation is: Rainfall - 32.1 inches, Snowfall: 31.6 inches.

Population

The reported population as of the 2000 census is 198,682. For more census information about Des Moines, visit the 2000 City of Des Moines Statistical Profile.

Education

In addition to a great public school system, Des Moines is home to five institutions of higher learning. Check out this listing of schools, colleges, and universities.

Commute Time

Des Moines has a 19.2 minute average commute time, one of the lowest for a city of our size.

Median Household Income

$38,408

Unemployment Rate

3.4 (Polk County)

Employment Base

The major industries in Des Moines are insurance, government, manufacturing, trade, and health care services. Des Moines area businesses draw employees from a five-county metro area of more than 500,000 residents. Iowa's work force, with an 80 percent high school graduation rate, ranks among the top five states.

Largest Employers

Our employers include both state and local government (State of Iowa, Polk County, City of Des Moines) as well as the following private employers.


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City of Des Moines, Iowa
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